BMW's upcoming electric vehicle has been snapped in Europe during cold weather testing, and is scheduled to hit the market before 2025.

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A prototype believed to be the BMW i4 electric vehicle has been spotted tearing up the white stuff in Europe, ahead of an anticipated market launch next decade.

While it was originally thought the new model would draw heavily from the futuristic-designed i Vision Dynamics concept that previewed it, the i4's design looks like it will be quite conventional – so much so you could mistake it for a 4 Series.

New rumours indicate the i4 will compliment the next-generation 4 Series line-up as a four-door electric variant, based on the same CLAR modular architecture that already underpins everything from the new-generation 3 Series through to the 7 Series.

Subtle differences like a closed grille will distinguish the i4 from its combustion-powered brethren, along with special door handles sitting flush with the body, and special light signatures front and rear.

It won't be the first time BMW has decided to make an 'i' model an electric version of one its core models – the upcoming iX3 follows the same concept, being heavily based on the X3.